Fibregy, a pioneering European research project dedicated to revolutionizing offshore energy platforms through the utilization of Fibre-Reinforced Plastics (FRP), recently hosted another highly successful open-door industrial day. This event took place in La Ciotat (France) and marked a significant step forward in the mission to transform the materials used in the offshore energy industry.
The harsh and corrosive environment of the open sea poses substantial challenges for offshore installations, leading to high maintenance costs. A vast majority of offshore assets are constructed from traditional steel, contributing to a large amount of maintenance costs attributed to corrosion. Despite the clear advantages of FRPs, such as immunity to corrosion and superior fatigue performance, these materials have been underutilized in the design of Floating Offshore Wind and Tidal Power Platforms.
The H2020 research project Fibregy aims to rectify this oversight by addressing key issues such as the absence of design and assessment guidelines, technology gaps, and the imperative need to demonstrate a significant reduction in the lifecycle costs associated with FRP material implementation in the offshore industry.
The recent industrial day held in La Ciotat featured a seminar in the morning session, providing attendees with invaluable insights into Fibregy's results and the potential of FRP materials in offshore applications. The presentations covered a wide range of topics, including the innovative design and construction methods developed in the project as well as integral aspects of the product’s life like structural health monitoring and digital twins of the demonstrators.
In the afternoon, participants had the unique opportunity to visit the Exail shipyard, where they were introduced to one of the Fibregy demonstrators: the Column D of the W2Power floating wind power plattform. This remarkable 5 meter high structure, developed and manufactured using composite materials within the Fibregy project, showcased the project's unwavering commitment to composite material in offshore energy production.
The event received widespread acclaim from attendees, who lauded the informative presentations, engaging discussions, and ample networking opportunities. It served as a platform for like-minded individuals to connect, exchange ideas, and spotlight the groundbreaking research being conducted by Fibregy.
The Fibregy team is now more determined than ever to continue its mission of providing innovative composite material solutions for the offshore industry. The support and enthusiasm of the community play a pivotal role in driving this project forward and shaping the future of offshore energy.
About Fibregy
Fibregy is a European research project dedicated to the extensive use of Fibre-Reinforced Plastics materials in the structure of the next generation of large Offshore Wind and Tidal Power platforms. With a focus on reducing maintenance costs and enhancing sustainability, Fibregy aims to transform the offshore energy industry through innovative solutions and groundbreaking research. For further information about Fibregy and its mission to revolutionize the offshore energy sector, please visit www.fibregy.eu.
